FIFA Frenzy is Driving Into Somerset County Thanks to Two NJ World Cup Community Initiative Grant Awards

(For Immediate Release – Somerset County, NJ): Somerset County towns are ready to celebrate FIFA’s World Cup, thanks to two World Cup Community Initiative Grants from ChooseNJ.

As Governor Mikie Sherrill stated, “The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase New Jersey on the global stage.” The awarded grants will be used to help activate fan zones, street fairs, watch parties, and festivals that showcase New Jersey’s communities and amplify the impact of small businesses throughout the state.

“The County is grateful to NJEDA and ChooseNJ for selecting two Somerset County locations that will host FIFA fan experiences,” said Commissioner Director Shanel Y. Robinson. “With this funding, we are able to expand local events so that no one needs to miss out on the excitement. There are going to be so many amazing opportunities to celebrate, to be active in our communities, and to experience the soccer frenzy right in your backyard. Additionally, these home-grown events will help our small businesses continue to thrive throughout the summer.”

The two grants will support:

June 13, 2026: The Battle of Basking Ridge Soccer Village & Viewing Party, hosted in Bernards Township. To learn more, visit: https://www.bernards.org/resident/battle-of-br

“Bernards Township is honored to be one of two municipalities in Somerset County selected to receive funding through the World Cup Community Initiative,” said Mayor Ana Duarte McCarthy, Bernards Township. “We are thrilled to capture the excitement of the 2026 FIFA World Cup with what’s sure to be an epic event, ‘The Battle of Basking Ridge,’ on Saturday, June 13. Celebrating the World Cup, nearly 100 years old, and our nation’s 250th Anniversary, creates a unique opportunity to convene residents and visitors from around the world in our historic community.”

June 27, 2026: World Cup Watch Party & Cultural Festival, hosted in partnership with the Somerset County Business Partnership and Iron Peak Sports & Events and held in Hillsborough. To learn more, visit: https://ironpeakse.com

“We’re incredibly excited and honored to receive this grant from ChooseNJ as part of the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” said Piers Giles, General Manager, Iron Peak Sports & Events. “Working with event organizers, athletes, and families every day, we see firsthand how sports have the power to bring people together — as fans, as rivals, and most importantly, as a community united by the love of the game. Events like the World Cup create moments that transcend competition, fostering connection, pride, and shared experiences across cultures and generations. Iron Peak is thrilled to play a role in that experience. The impact of this investment goes far beyond our venue — it’s an investment in our community, our local businesses, and the future of sports and entertainment in New Jersey.”

Somerset County residents do not have to wait until June to start celebrating. The official Skyline to Shoreline Road Tour double decker bus will be kicking off soccer season on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Bernard Township’s annual Charter Day festivities hosted in downtown Basking Ridge. The family-friendly event will be hosted from 12-6 p.m. To learn more about this upcoming event, visit: https://www.bernards.org/resident/charter-day?highlight

With the Skyline to Shoreline Road Tour fans can experience interactive soccer activities, music, giveaways, photo opportunities, and pop-up experiences designed to celebrate the spirit of the World Cup and the culture and pride of our region. The tour travels to community events – like Charter Day – to help build anticipation for the tournament while creating fun, family-friendly experiences for residents and visitors alike.

“Events like the World Cup bring more than visitors; they bring energy, connection, and opportunity,” said Chris Edwards, President & CEO, Somerset County Business Partnership. “For Somerset County, it’s a chance for our business community to engage with a global audience, foster new relationships, and demonstrate the vibrancy and diversity that define our local economy. I want to commend our County and State leaders for investing in these events, and I encourage our small businesses to engage with us on a way to capitalize on the moment.”

To get involved or to explore even more World Cup festivities, watch parties, and events, visit: https://visitsomersetnj.org/fifa-world-cup-2026/

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The County of Somerset is committed to excellence and innovation in public service, promoting the well-being of all residents and communities by providing effective, efficient, and responsive leadership.

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